Survey: Americans Need $2.3M for Wealth, $839K for Financial Comfort
Schwab’s 2025 Modern Wealth Survey finds Americans say you need $2.3 million to be considered wealthy and $839,000 to be financially comfortable. The survey shows the top 1% national AGI threshold at $663,164, ranging from $992,000 in Washington, D.C. to $384,000 in West Virginia.
1. Key Survey Findings
The 2025 Modern Wealth Survey reveals that the average American believes $2.3 million in assets constitutes wealth, while $839,000 is seen as the threshold for financial comfort. Responses highlight that these figures reflect aspiration rather than an objective measure of financial health.
2. Nationwide Income Brackets
National adjusted gross income (AGI) thresholds place the top 10% at $178,611 or higher, the top 5% at $261,591 or higher, and the top 1% at $663,164 or higher. Median household income stands at $81,604, making the top 1% threshold roughly eight times higher.
3. State-by-State Disparities
Income needed to reach the top 1% varies significantly by state, peaking at $992,000 in Washington, D.C. and $976,000 in Connecticut, while West Virginia, Mississippi, and New Mexico require just $384,000, $406,000, and $417,000 respectively.
4. Wealth Versus Income
Net worth measures assets minus liabilities, offering a fuller picture of financial health than income alone. High earners can have low net worth if carrying large debt, whereas moderate earners with disciplined savings and low expenses may be more financially secure.